Soba Noodles and Stir-fried Vegetables

Soba Noodles and Stir-fried Vegetables Recipe from Japan

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Soba noodles and stir-fried vegetables is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of Japanese cuisine with the freshness of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.

History

Soba noodles have been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. Made from buckwheat flour, these noodles are known for their nutty flavor and chewy texture. Stir-fried vegetables are a popular cooking technique in many Asian cultures, including Japanese cuisine. Combining these two elements creates a dish that is both flavorful and healthy.

Ingredients

1 tsp toasted sesame oil
1 tsp + 1 tbsp shoyu or soy sauce
1 tbsp peanut or vegetable oil
4 cups thinly sliced napa (Chinese) cabbage
0.5 cup peeled, grated daikon for garnish
2 nori sheets, cut into slivers for garnish
1 tbsp chopped fresh ginger for garnish
1 tsp wasabi, mixed with 1 tsp water
8 oz (227 g) package soba (buckwheat noodles)

Broth

8 oz (227 g) fresh shiitake mushrooms
4 inches piece kombu
6 dried shiitake mushrooms
0.25 cup thinly sliced fresh ginger
1 small onion, thinly sliced
0.25 cup shoyu or soy sauce
0.25 cup sake

How to prepare

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat for the noodles.
To make the broth, separate the stems from the fresh shiitakes and set the caps aside.
Place the stems in a medium saucepan along with the kombu, dried shiitakes, ginger slices, onion, shoyu, sake, and 4 cups of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Remove the kombu, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer until the liquid is reduced by half, which should take about 25 minutes.
Meanwhile, slice the reserved shiitake caps and set them aside.
Add the noodles to the boiling water and stir to prevent sticking.
Cook the noodles until they are just tender, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes.
Drain the noodles, rinse them under cold running water, and drain them again.
Transfer the noodles to a large bowl and stir in the sesame oil and 1 tsp of shoyu.
Set the noodles aside.
Set a wok or large skillet over high heat and add the peanut oil.
Immediately add the sliced shiitake caps and stir-fry them for 1 minute.
Add the remaining 1 tbsp of shoyu and stir-fry until the shiitakes are tender, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the cabbage and stir-fry until it is tender, which should take about 3 minutes.
Remove the wok or skillet from the heat.
Season the stir-fried vegetables with freshly ground pepper to taste.
To serve, strain the broth, discarding the solids.
Have the garnishes ready.
Divide the noodles among 4 wide bowls or pasta plates.
Add the stir-fried vegetables and then ladle some broth over them.
Top each bowl with a mound of daikon, some nori slivers, and chopped ginger.
Pass the wasabi mixture separately so that each diner can flavor the broth to taste.
Serve the dish hot.

Variations

Add tofu or shrimp for additional protein.
Use different vegetables, such as bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic, chili paste, or rice vinegar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the noodles under cold water after cooking to prevent them from sticking together.

- Stir-fry the vegetables quickly over high heat to retain their crispness and vibrant colors.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more soy sauce or sesame oil as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soba noodles and stir-fried vegetables hot, garnished with daikon, nori slivers, and chopped ginger. Pair with a side of miso soup or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the noodles until just tender, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

- Stir-fry the vegetables quickly over high heat to retain their crispness and flavor.

- Simmer the broth until reduced by half to concentrate the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute other types of mushrooms, such as cremini or button mushrooms, for the shiitakes.

- Use zucchini noodles or rice noodles instead of soba noodles for a different twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the broth and stir-fried vegetables ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Cook the noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the noodles and vegetables in a bowl, garnished with daikon, nori slivers, and chopped ginger. - Serve the dish in individual bowls for a beautiful presentation. - Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions for extra color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi for added flavor.

- Enjoy with a cup of green tea or sake for an authentic Japanese dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, gently warm the noodles and vegetables in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of soba noodles and stir-fried vegetables contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying meal that won't weigh you down.

Carbohydrates

Soba noodles are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. The vegetables in this dish also contribute to the carbohydrate content, making it a well-balanced meal.

Fats

The sesame oil and vegetable oil used in this recipe provide healthy fats that are essential for brain function and overall health. These fats also add flavor and richness to the dish.

Proteins

While this dish is primarily plant-based, the shiitake mushrooms and daikon garnish provide a good source of protein. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

The vegetables in this dish are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and overall well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. If you have a gluten allergy or sensitivity, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce.

Summary

Soba noodles and stir-fried vegetables are a nutritious and delicious meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Summary

Soba noodles and stir-fried vegetables is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of Japanese cuisine with the freshness of vegetables. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Enjoy the nutty flavor of the soba noodles, the crispness of the stir-fried vegetables, and the richness of the broth in this flavorful dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Soba Noodles and Stir-fried Vegetables. It was a warm summer day, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of a small village in Japan. The air was filled with the aroma of exotic spices and sizzling meats, and my senses were completely overwhelmed by the vibrant colors and sounds of the market.

As I walked through the narrow alleyways, I came across a small food stall tucked away in a corner. The stall was run by an elderly woman with a kind smile and a twinkle in her eye. She was busy cooking up a storm, and the delicious smells wafting from her wok were enough to make my mouth water.

I couldn't resist the urge to stop and watch as she deftly tossed the noodles and vegetables in the sizzling pan, the steam rising in thick clouds around her. Her movements were quick and precise, and it was clear that she was a master in the kitchen.

Curiosity got the best of me, and I approached the woman, asking if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and invited me to sit with her as she cooked. She explained each step of the process in detail, from boiling the soba noodles to sautéing the colorful vegetables in a fragrant sauce.

I watched in awe as she worked her magic, transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that was as beautiful to look at as it was delicious to eat. The aroma of garlic and ginger filled the air, and my stomach growled in anticipation.

After she finished cooking, the woman handed me a steaming bowl of the noodles and vegetables, topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce. I took a hesitant bite, and was immediately transported to flavor heaven. The noodles were perfectly cooked, the vegetables were tender-crisp, and the sauce was a symphony of sweet, salty, and savory flavors.

I thanked the woman profusely for sharing her recipe with me, and she smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling with satisfaction. She told me that cooking was her passion, and that she was always happy to pass on her knowledge to others who shared her love of food.

I left the food stall that day feeling inspired and invigorated, determined to recreate the recipe for Soba Noodles and Stir-fried Vegetables in my own kitchen. Over the years, I have made the dish countless times, tweaking and perfecting the recipe until it became a beloved staple in my family.

Every time I cook the dish, I think back to that warm summer day in Japan and the kind woman who shared her culinary expertise with me. I am grateful for her generosity and the memories we created together, and I will always cherish the recipe for Soba Noodles and Stir-fried Vegetables as a symbol of our shared love for food and cooking.